Colin Rathmell

Title: The Innovator Colin Rathmell: Pioneering Advances in Ethyl Acetate Production

Introduction

Colin Rathmell, an accomplished inventor based in Yarm, GB, has made significant contributions to the field of chemical engineering. With a portfolio of seven patents, his innovative approaches in the production and purification of ethyl acetate have paved the way for advancements in industrial processes.

Latest Patents

Among Colin Rathmell's notable inventions are methods revolving around the processing and purification of ethyl acetate. One of his latest patents outlines a sophisticated process where ethanol is dehydrogenated in the presence of hydrogen over a dehydrogenation catalyst, exemplified by copper on silica. The resulting intermediate reaction product mixture undergoes selective hydrogenation, converting reactive carbonyl-containing by-products into corresponding alcohols, namely 2-butanol and n-butanol. The processed products are then purified through a two-stage distillation procedure. The primary distillate, a mix of ethyl acetate, ethanol, and water, is further refined to yield a bottom product containing over 99.8 mol % ethyl acetate. Another patent describes a technique for recovering substantially pure alkyl alkanoate from an impure feedstock via selective hydrogenation, ensuring high purity of the final product.

Career Highlights

Colin's professional journey includes valuable experiences with prominent companies, including Davy McKee Limited and Davy Process Technology Limited. His work within these organizations has allowed him to refine his expertise and contribute significantly to the development of innovative solutions in chemical processing.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Colin Rathmell has collaborated with esteemed professionals, including Norman Harris and John Scarlett. Their collective efforts have fostered an environment of innovation and success, furthering advancements in their respective fields.

Conclusion

Colin Rathmell stands as a testament to the impact of innovative thinking in the field of chemical engineering. His pioneering patents in ethyl acetate production and purification exemplify the crucial role that inventors play in advancing industrial methodologies. As his contributions continue to influence the industry, Colin remains a notable figure in the realm of innovation.